One-Way Coupling for Installation Box Assembly

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

The existing assembly of an installation box and socket outlet is cumbersome and time-consuming to secure, requiring multiple screws and manual tightening, which is troublesome for electricians during installation.

Innovation Solution

The introduction of a one-way coupling mechanism between the installation box and electric installation material, where a first coupler on the material and a second coupler on the box allow for easy installation by pushing the material into the box, with the second coupler arranged internally to maintain the box's outer shape and facilitate easy replacement.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If securing screws and screw drivers are used to secure the socket outlet to the installation box, then the socket outlet can be firmly attached, but the installation process becomes troublesome and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveattachment firmnessVSAvoidinstallation time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The mounting frame is divided into two functional parts: a coupling element for engagement with the installation box and a securing element for fastening. This segmentation allows the attachment mechanism to be simplified while maintaining firm attachment, eliminating the need for traditional screw drivers and reducing installation time.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The traditional screw-and-screwdriver mechanical system is replaced with a snap-fit coupling mechanism. The coupling element engages with the installation box through a simple pushing motion, substituting the complex screw tightening process with a straightforward mechanical engagement that is both firm and quick to install.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Reliability

If multiple securing screws are used to attach the mounting frame and front, then the attachment is secure, but the installation becomes more complex and troublesome

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveattachment securityVSAvoidinstallation complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The coupling element integrates multiple functions into a single component: it provides structural support, enables attachment to the installation box, and secures the mounting frame. This merging of functions eliminates the need for multiple separate securing screws, reducing installation complexity while maintaining attachment security.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The coupling element is designed to automatically engage and secure the mounting frame to the installation box through its own structural features, without requiring external tools or multiple fastening components. The self-securing mechanism simplifies the installation process while ensuring reliable attachment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentEP4016771A1Assembly of an installation box and electric installation material
Publication Date: 2022.06.22 ABB (SCHWEIZ) AG
  • EP4016771A1 patent drawingFigure 1A
  • EP4016771A1 patent drawingFigure 1B
  • EP4016771A1 patent drawingFigure 2

AI summary

The invention relates to an assembly of an installation box and electric installation material to be installed at the installation box, wherein the installation box comprises a bottom wall and a circumferential wall standing upright from the bottom wall, wherein the bottom wall and the circumferential wall together enclose an installation space, and the circumferential wall has an installation edge that bounds an installation opening of the installation box, characterized in that the electric installation material has a first coupler and the installation box has a second coupler, that the first and second couplers together define a one-way coupling allowing movement of the electric installation material in the installation direction and blocking movement of the electric installation material in a direction opposite to the installation direction, and that the second coupler is arranged at the inner circumference of the circumferential wall.